Are nurse injectors the new norm?

Area of Science:

• Cosmetic surgery
• Dermatology
• Medical aesthetics

Background:

• Botulinum toxin (Botox) and dermal filler use is increasing.
• Non-plastic surgery professionals are increasingly performing these aesthetic procedures.
• Patient perception of practitioner training is a key factor in procedure consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey plastic surgeons' perspectives on the increasing trend of non-plastic surgeons performing aesthetic procedures.
• To understand plastic surgeons' views on the capabilities of various healthcare professionals in administering injectables.

Main Methods:

• An eight-question online survey was distributed to plastic surgeons globally via ISAPS, ASAPS, and ASPS in 2013.
• The survey assessed practitioners' perceived capabilities in administering Botox, fillers, and vaccines.
• Respondents included plastic surgeons, dermatologists, gynecologists, dentists, and nurses.

Main Results:

• 882 plastic surgeons responded to the survey.
• 77% of respondents believed nurses were less capable than plastic surgeons for Botox, and 81% for fillers.
• 98% ranked plastic surgeons as most capable for Botox/fillers, while nurses in other fields were ranked highest for vaccine administration.

Conclusions:

• Plastic surgeons perceive themselves and dermatologists as the most capable injectors for aesthetic procedures.
• A discrepancy exists in perceived capabilities between aesthetic injectables and vaccine administration by nurses.
• The study suggests a need for updated training requirements and practice guidelines to ensure patient safety and consistent outcomes in the evolving cosmetic injectable landscape.